COAS assures troops of welfare, tasks them on protection of critical infrastructure
— Says performance will boost national economy
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. W. Shaibu, has assured troops 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt of improved welfare and working conditions as he tasked them to remain disciplined, committed and dedicated to the protection of critical national infrastructure.
Shaibu gave the assurance on Friday during his maiden operational visit to troops, where he commended them for their efforts and sacrifices in safeguarding key assets critical to national security and economic stability.
Addressing officers and men, the COAS said the responsibility of protecting critical national infrastructure was central to economic growth and national development, urging the troops to take their mandate seriously.
“Your job here is very key to protecting critical national infrastructure. Once you do that job very well, it will impact positively on the economy of the country,” he said.
He assured the troops that their welfare remained his topmost priority, pledging to address challenges affecting their operational effectiveness.
“I will take care of your welfare issues, which is topmost priority. You will get what you deserve and what you are entitled to, in one piece,” Shaibu said.
The COAS disclosed that following briefings from the General Officer Commanding and brigade commanders, the Army had approved immediate interventions to address accommodation challenges.
“What we have approved so far will carter for the welfare of over 150 soldiers,”he said.
“We have approved the construction of additional accommodation, the renovation of certain quarters, and the completion of some ongoing projects. This will go a long way in mitigating accommodation challenges,” he said.
Shaibu also said measures had been taken to improve access to quality education for the children of personnel, stressing that welfare support must be matched with professionalism and dedication to duty.
In return, he charged the troops to remain loyal to constituted authority and to listen to their officers for proper guidance and leadership.
The visit ended with an interactive session, during which the COAS invited questions from officers and soldiers on operational and welfare-related issues.
